Tensioning device including a clutch assembly

ABSTRACT

A tensioning device includes a housing, a drive member, an inner sleeve, a driven member, a cable member, and a clutch assembly. The housing includes an attachment feature. The drive member is rotatably coupled with the housing. The inner sleeve is disposed in the housing and is coupled with the drive member. The inner sleeve is rotatable together with the drive member relative to the housing. The driven member is disposed within the housing and is operably coupled with the drive member. The clutch assembly facilitates selective coupling between the drive member and the inner sleeve. The cable member is coupled with the driven member. The driven member is slidably coupled with the inner sleeve such that the driven member and the cable member are slidable together between a retracted position and an extended position in response to rotation of the inner sleeve.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/400,337, entitled TENSIONING DEVICE, filed May 1, 2019 which claimspriority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/665,053,entitled TENSIONING DEVICE, filed May 1, 2018, and hereby incorporatesthese patent applications by reference herein in their respectiveentireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The apparatus and methods described below generally relate to atensioning device that can be coupled with opposing ends of a lashingmember. The tensioning device is operable to adjust the tension on thelashing member.

BACKGROUND

Conventional tensioning devices, such as come-a-longs and turn buckles,are oftentimes too bulky and cumbersome for use in confined areas, suchas when lashing a tree stand or securing a load to a vehicle. Inaddition, tension imparted by the tensioning device is difficult tocontrol and can oftentimes result in significant overtightening or undertightening.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments will become better understood with regard to thefollowing description, appended claims and accompanying drawingswherein:

FIG. 1 is an isometric cross sectional view depicting a tensioningdevice, in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged isometric view of the encircled portion of thetensioning device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an isometric cross sectional view depicting a tensioningdevice, in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged isometric view of the encircled portion of thetensioning device of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is an isometric cross sectional view depicting a drive member ofthe tensioning device of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is an isometric cross sectional view depicting a housing of ahousing assembly of the tensioning device of FIG. 3;

FIG. 7 is an isometric cross sectional view depicting a tensioningdevice, in accordance with yet another embodiment;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged isometric view of the encircled portion of thetensioning device of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is an enlarged sectional plan view depicting the tensioningdevice of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is an isometric cross sectional view depicting a tensioningdevice, in accordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged isometric view of the encircled portion of thetensioning device of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is an isometric sectional view depicting a drive member of thetensioning device of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged isometric cross sectional view depicting atensioning device, in accordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 14 is an isometric cross sectional view depicting a tensioningdevice, in accordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a cross sectional plan view depicting the tensioning deviceof FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is an isometric sectional view depicting a tensioning device, inaccordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged isometric view depicting the tensioning device ofFIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device, inaccordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 19 is an enlarged partially exploded isometric view depicting thetensioning device of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device, inaccordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 21 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device, inaccordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 22 is an enlarged isometric view depicting a tensioning device, inaccordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 23 is an isometric view depicting a drive member of the tensioningdevice of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is an enlarged isometric view depicting a tensioning device, inaccordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 25 is an enlarged view depicting a tensioning device, in accordancewith still yet another embodiment, and with a visual indicator shown inan under-torque condition;

FIG. 26 is an enlarged view depicting the tensioning device of FIG. 25but with the visual indicator shown in an at-torque or over-torquecondition;

FIG. 27 is an enlarged isometric cross sectional view depicting atensioning device, in accordance with still yet another embodiment, andwith a clutch assembly shown in an under-torque condition;

FIG. 28 is an enlarged view depicting the tensioning device of FIG. 27but with the clutch assembly shown in an at-torque or over-torquecondition;

FIG. 29 is an enlarged isometric cross sectional view depicting atensioning device, in accordance with still yet another embodiment, andwith a clutch assembly shown in an under-torque condition;

FIG. 30 is an enlarged view depicting the tensioning device of FIG. 29but with the clutch assembly shown in an at-torque or over-torquecondition;

FIG. 31 is an enlarged isometric sectional view depicting a tensioningdevice, in accordance with still yet another embodiment, and with aclutch assembly shown in an under-torque condition;

FIG. 32 is an enlarged view depicting the tensioning device of FIG. 31but with the clutch assembly shown in an at-torque or over-torquecondition;

FIG. 33 is an isometric cross sectional view depicting a clutchassembly, in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 34 is an isometric view depicting a clutch assembly, in accordancewith yet another embodiment, and with the clutch assembly shown in anunder-torque condition;

FIG. 35 is an isometric view depicting the clutch assembly of FIG. 34but with the clutch assembly shown in an at-torque or over-torquecondition;

FIG. 36 is a cross sectional view of the clutch assembly taken along theline 36-36 of FIG. 34;

FIG. 37 is an enlarged isometric sectional view depicting a tensioningdevice having a cable, in accordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 38 is an enlarged isometric sectional view depicting a tensioningdevice, in accordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 39 is an enlarged isometric view depicting a cable, in accordancewith another embodiment;

FIGS. 40A-40H are isometric sectional views of various alternativearrangements for a housing of a housing assembly of a tensioning member;

FIG. 41 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device, inaccordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 42 is an exploded isometric view of the tensioning device of FIG.41;

FIG. 43 is a cross sectional view of the tensioning device taken alongthe line 43-43 of FIG. 41;

FIG. 44 is an enlarged view of a tension sensor and a hook of thetensioning device of FIG. 41;

FIG. 45 is a schematic view of the tension sensor of FIG. 44;

FIG. 46 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device, inaccordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 47 is an exploded isometric view of the tensioning device of FIG.46;

FIG. 48 is a cross sectional view of the tensioning device taken alongthe line 48-48 of FIG. 46;

FIG. 49 is an isometric view depicting a tensioning device, inaccordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 50 is an exploded isometric view of the tensioning device of FIG.49; and

FIG. 51 is a cross sectional view of the tensioning device taken alongthe line 51-51 of FIG. 49.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments are hereinafter described in detail in connection with theviews and examples of FIGS. 1-51, wherein like numbers indicate the sameor corresponding elements throughout the views. FIGS. 1 and 2 illustratea tensioning device 10 that can be attached to opposing ends of alashing member (e.g., a strap, a rope, a cable, a chain) (not shown) toselectively impart tension thereto as will be described in furtherdetail below. The tensioning device 10 can comprise a housing assembly12, a drive stem 14, a clutch assembly 16, a drive member 18, and adriven member 20. The housing assembly 12 can comprise a housing 22, aproximal cap 24, and a distal cap 26. The proximal cap 24 and the distalcap 26 can secured to opposing ends of the housing 22 via threadedengagement or any of a variety of suitable alternative securementmethods (e.g., welding, adhesive, press-fit). The proximal cap 24 andthe distal cap 26 can cooperate to define an interior 28. The housing 22of the housing assembly 12 is shown to be substantially tubular shaped.

The drive stem 14 can be rotatably coupled to the housing assembly 12and can comprise a threaded end 32 and a drive end 34. The drive stem 14can be disposed in the interior 28 and can extend between the proximalcap 24 and the distal cap 26 such that the drive end 34 is located atthe proximal cap 24 and the threaded end 32 is located at the distal cap26. The clutch assembly 16 can be located at the proximal cap 24 andoperably coupled with the drive end 34 of the drive stem 14. The drivemember 18 can be operably coupled with the clutch assembly 16 and canextend from the proximal cap 24 and can be at least partially externalto the interior 28 such that the drive member 18 is accessible along anexterior of the drive stem 14.

The drive member 18 can be rotated which can facilitate rotation of thedrive stem 14 via the clutch assembly 16. The clutch assembly 16 can beconfigured to selectively decouple the drive member 18 from the drivestem 14 when a particular torque is imparted to the drive member 18. Thedrive member 18 can be shaped to enable mechanical mating with a tool.In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the drive member 18can be hexagonal shaped to allow for selective interaction and with awrench or socket that can be used to rotate the drive member 18.However, it is to be appreciated that the drive member 18 can beconfigured to mate with any of a variety of suitable alternative tools,such as an Allen bit, a Torx bit, or pliers, for example.

The driven member 20 can be disposed in the interior 28 and can beslidably coupled with the housing 22 of the housing assembly 12. Asillustrated in FIG. 2, the driven member 20 can comprise a central body36 and a pair of tab members 38 extending from the central body 36. Thehousing 22 of the housing assembly 12 can define a pair of elongatedslots 40 that extend between the proximal cap 24 (FIG. 1) and the distalcap 26. Each of the tab members 38 can extend into one of the elongatedslots 40 such that the tab members 38 are nested in the elongated slots40. The driven member 20 can be configured to slide along the interior28 of the housing 22 between the proximal cap 24 and the distal cap 26.The tab members 38 can interact with the elongated slots 40 to preventrotation of the driven member 20 during such sliding. The central body36 is shown to be substantially hexagonal shaped. An interior surface 42of the housing 22 can be similarly shaped (e.g., hexagonal shaped) toallow for sliding of the driven member 20 within the interior 28 whilealso contributing to preventing rotation of the driven member 20.

Still referring to FIG. 2, the driven member 20 can define a pair ofpassages 44. A cable member 46 can be routed through the passages 44 andsecured to the driven member 20 with nuts 48. The cable member 46 can berouted through the distal cap 26 such that it extends from the distalcap 26 and is accessible from the exterior of the tensioning device 10.The cable member 46 is shown to be provided in a looped arrangement witha clamp member 50 that gathers the cable member 46 together. The clampmember 50 can be slidable along the cable member 46 to enable theoverall size of the looped arrangement to be varied. It is to beappreciated that although a cable member is described, any of a varietyof suitable alternative attachment features can be provided, such as,for example, a rope, a hook, a strap, or a chain.

The threaded end 32 of the drive stem 14 can extend through the centralbody 36 of the driven member 20 and can be threadably engaged therewith.Rotation of the drive stem 14 (e.g., via rotation of the drive member18) can cause the driven member 20 to either slide towards the proximalcap 24 or the distal cap 26 depending on the rotational direction of thedrive stem 14. Sliding of the driven member 20 towards the proximal cap24 can cause the cable member 46 to be retracted into the interior 28thereby decreasing the length of the exterior portion of the cablemember 46 that extends from the distal cap 26. Conversely, sliding ofthe driven member 20 towards the distal cap 26 can cause the cablemember 46 to be extended from the interior 28 thereby increasing thelength of the exterior portion of the cable member 46 that extends fromthe distal cap 26. In one embodiment, the threaded end 32 of the drivestem 14 can be right-hand threaded such that rotation of the drive stem14 in a clockwise direction (when viewing the tensioning device 10 atthe proximal cap 24) facilitates sliding the driven member 20 towardsthe proximal cap 24, and rotation of the drive stem 14 in acounter-clockwise direction facilitates sliding of the driven member 20towards the distal cap 26.

Use of the tensioning device 10 will now be discussed. The cable member46 can be attached to one end of a lashing member (not shown) and a hook(e.g., 2129 in FIGS. 41-43) disposed on the housing assembly 12 can beattached to the other end of the lashing member such that the tensioningdevice 10 is provided in line with the lashing member (as opposed tobeing a coil-over tensioning member like a ratchet strap). The drivemember 18 can then be rotated which can retract the cable member 46 intothe interior 28 to pull the ends of the lashing member together therebyincreasing the tension on the lashing member. Once the tension on thelashing member reaches a particular tension, the clutch assembly 16 candecouple the drive member 18 from the drive stem 14 (e.g., clutch out)to prevent further tension from being applied to the lashing member. Itis to be appreciated that the maximum tension permitted by the clutchassembly 16 can be a function of the design of the clutch assembly 16and can be either preset or variable (e.g., by a user). It is also to beappreciated that the tensioning device 10 can be considered to applytension to a lashing strap linearly (e.g., along the same axis ofrotation of the drive member 18) as opposed to transversely (e.g., aratchet strap that applies tension in a direction that is perpendicularto an axis of rotation of a drive member). One example of such a lineartensioning device is described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,073,187 and9,108,309, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in theirrespective entireties.

It is to be appreciated that the tensioning device 10 can be equippedwith any of a variety of sensors or monitoring devices that facilitatemonitoring of an operational parameter of the tensioning device, suchas, for example, a strain gage, an accelerometer, a GPS device, or anencoder. These sensors or monitoring devices can communicate with aremote computing device (e.g., a smartphone, a personal computer, alaptop, or a tablet) wirelessly (e.g., via Bluetooth) or through a wiredconnection, as provided as part of an internet of things (IoT) system.

FIGS. 3-6 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a tensioning device110 that can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, thetensioning device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, thetensioning device 110 can include a housing 122 and a driven member 120disposed in an interior 128 at least partially defined by the housing122. However, the housing 122 can include a threaded interior surface142 that can mate with a threaded outer surface 151 of the driven member120. In one embodiment, the driven member 120 can be a two piecearrangement, one piece of which is illustrated in FIG. 5. As illustratedin FIGS. 3, 4, and 6, the housing 122 can have a substantially squarecross-sectional shape.

FIGS. 7-9 illustrate an alternative embodiment of a tensioning device210 that can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, thetensioning device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, thetensioning device 210 can include a housing 222 and a driven member 220disposed in an interior 228 at least partially defined by the housing222. However, the housing 222 can include an interior surface 242 thatdefines a helical groove 252 that can mate with tab members 238 of thedriven member 220. The driven member 220 can be configured for selectiverotation with respect to the housing 222. When the driven member 220 isrotated, the interaction between the tab members 238 and the helicalgroove 252 can cause the driven member 220 to move laterally (e.g.,between a proximal cap and a distal cap) within the interior 228. Thehelical groove 252 can have a greater pitch than the pitch of thethreads on a drive stem 214.

The driven member 220 can be rotated in response to rotation of thedrive stem 214 in one of a gradual motion mode and a rapid motion mode.When in the gradual motion mode, the drive stem 214 can be rotated withrespect to the driven member 220 which can cause the driven member 220to rotate with respect to the housing 222 (at a slower rotationalvelocity than the drive stem 214). When in the rapid motion mode, thedrive stem 214 and the driven member 220 can rotate together which cancause the driven member 220 to move laterally within the interior 228more rapidly (for a particular rotational velocity of the drive stem214) than when the driven member 220 is rotated in the gradual motionmode. In one embodiment, operation of the drive stem 214 and the drivenmember 220 in either of the gradual motion mode or the rapid motion modecan depend upon the rotational velocity of the drive stem 214. Forexample, when the drive stem 214 is rotated slowly, the drive stem 214and the driven member 220 can operate in the gradual motion mode.However, when the drive stem 214 is rotated more rapidly, the drive stem214 and the driven member 220 can operate in the rapid motion mode.

FIGS. 10-12 illustrate another alternative embodiment of a tensioningdevice 310 that can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, thetensioning device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, thetensioning device 310 can include a housing 322 and a driven member 320disposed in an interior 328 at least partially defined by the housing322. The driven member 320 can include a central body 336. However, thecentral body 336 can be substantially annular shaped, and an interiorsurface 342 of the housing 322 can be similarly shaped. The housing 322can have a substantially square cross-sectional shape. In oneembodiment, the driven member 320 can be provided in a two piecearrangement, one piece of which is illustrated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13 illustrates yet another alternative embodiment of a tensioningdevice 410 that can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, thetensioning device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, thetensioning device 410 can include a housing 422 and a driven member 420disposed in an interior 428 at least partially defined by the housing422. The driven member 420 can include a central body 436. However, thecentral body 436 can be devoid of tab members (e.g., 38) and insteadrely on the interaction between the substantially hexagonal shape of thecentral body 436 with a similarly-shaped interior surface 442 to preventrotation of the driven member 420. The housing 422 can have asubstantially hexagonal square cross-sectional shape.

FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of atensioning device 510 that can be similar to, or the same in manyrespects as, the tensioning device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. Forexample, the tensioning device 510 can include a housing 522 and adriven member 520 disposed in an interior 528 at least partially definedby the housing 522. The driven member 520 can include a central body536. However, the central body 536 can include a nose portion 554 thatcan nest within a narrowed area 556 of the interior 528 when the drivenmember 520 is slid towards a proximal cap 524. Nesting of the noseportion 554 within the narrowed area 556 can effectively prevent furthersliding of the driven member 520 towards the proximal cap 524. When thenose portion 554 is nested within the narrowed area 556, the taperedshape of each of the nose portion 554 and the narrowed area 556 canprevent the nose portion 554 from becoming stuck in the narrowed area556 thereby allowing for easy sliding of the driven member 520 away fromthe proximal cap 524.

FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of atensioning device 610 that can be similar to, or the same in manyrespects as, the tensioning device 310 illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11.For example, the tensioning device 610 can include a housing 622 and adriven member 620 disposed in an interior 628 at least partially definedby the housing 622. The driven member 620 can include a central body636. However, a rigid loop 658 can be coupled with the central body 636instead of a cable member (e.g., 46). The rigid loop 658 can facilitateattachment of a lashing member thereto but can be rigid enough to allowthe tensioning device 610 to be used to push objects apart. Inparticular, the tensioning device 610 can be wedged between two objectsand a drive member 618 can be rotated to extend the rigid loop 658 withrespect to the housing 622 which can urge the two objects apart.

FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of atensioning device 710 that can be similar to, or the same in manyrespects as, the tensioning device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. Forexample, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the tensioning device 710 caninclude a housing 722 and a driven member 720 disposed in an interior728 at least partially defined by the housing 722. However, a drivemember 718 can be located on the housing 722 between a proximal cap 724and a distal cap 726 (FIG. 18) such that the tensioning device 710 is ina “side drive” arrangement. In such an arrangement the driven member 720can slide along an axis (not shown) that is perpendicular to arotational axis of the drive member 718. The drive member 718 can beoperably coupled with a bevel gear 760 that is intermeshed with athreaded end 732 of a drive stem 714. Rotation of the drive member 718can rotate the bevel gear 760 which can rotate the drive stem 714 (viathe threaded end 732) to facilitate sliding of the driven member 720within the interior 728. The proximal cap 724 can include a hook member762 (FIG. 18) or other similar device that allows a lashing member to besecured thereto. It is to be appreciated that the tensioning device 710can facilitate two-way pulling of a lashing member from opposing ends ofthe tensioning device 710 rather than from a hook (e.g., 2129 in FIGS.41-43) disposed on the housing 722.

FIG. 20 illustrates yet another alternative embodiment of a tensioningdevice 810 that can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, thetensioning device 710 illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19. However, a drivemember 818 can be angled differently with respect to the rotational axisof the drive stem (e.g., 714).

FIG. 21 illustrates yet another alternative embodiment of a tensioningdevice 910 that can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, thetensioning device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, thetensioning device 910 can include a housing 922 and a driven member 920disposed in an interior 928 at least partially defined by the housing922. However, the tensioning device 910 can include a bar member 964that is routed along the interior 928 and through the driven member 920.The driven member 920 can have an elongate gear member 966 that extendsfrom a central body 936 in a cantilevered arrangement. An actuator 968can be disposed along an exterior of the housing 922 and can interfacewith the elongate gear member 966 such that actuation of the actuator968 can cause the driven member 920 to slide within the interior 928.

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of atensioning device 1010 that can be similar to, or the same in manyrespects as, the tensioning device 310 illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11.For example, as illustrated in FIG. 22, the tensioning device 1010 caninclude a housing 1022 and a driven member 1020 disposed in an interior1028 at least partially defined by the housing 1022. The driven member1020 can include a tab member 1038 (FIG. 23). However, the housing 1022can define an elongated slot 1070 that extends through the housing 1022.The tab member 1038 can extend through the elongated slot 1070 and to anexterior of the tensioning device 1010 to allow a hook or other deviceto be attached thereto for engaging a lashing member. The tab member1038 can also provide a visual indication of the position of the drivenmember 1020 within the housing 1022.

FIG. 24 illustrates yet another alternative embodiment of a tensioningdevice 1110 that can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, thetensioning device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, thetensioning device 1110 can include a drive member 1118 located at adistal cap 1126. However, the drive member 1118 can be configured as aratcheting head that only allows the drive stem (e.g., 14) to be rotatedin one direction when the drive member 1118 is rotated in differentdirections. A selector switch 1172 can be provided that extends from thedistal cap 1126 and allows a user to select the direction of rotation ofthe drive stem. The clutch assembly (not shown) can be configured toprovide an audible sound (such as a click or a pop) to notify a userwhen a particular torque value has been reached (similar to a torquewrench).

FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of atensioning device 1210 that can be similar to, or the same in manyrespects as, the tensioning device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2.However, the tensioning device 1210 can include a visual indicator 1274that can notify a user when a particular torque value has been reached(similar to a torque wrench). FIG. 25 illustrates the visual indicator1274 in an under-torque condition and FIG. 26 illustrates the visualindicator 1274 in an at-torque or over-torque condition.

FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of atensioning device 1310 that can be similar to, or the same in manyrespects as, the tensioning device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. Forexample, the tensioning device 1310 can comprise a clutch assembly 1316.The clutch assembly 1316 can be a disc-type arrangement that includes aninner disk 1376 that is sandwiched between a pair of outer disks 1378.When the clutch assembly 1316 is in an under-torque condition, asillustrated in FIG. 27, the inner disk 1376 is engaged with the outerdisks 1378 such that a drive member 1318 is engaged with a drive stem1314 to facilitate rotation of the drive stem 1314 with the drive member1318. When the clutch assembly 1316 is in an at-torque or over torquecondition, as illustrated in FIG. 28, the outer disks separate such thatthe inner disk 1376 is no longer engaged with the outer disks 1378 andthe drive member 1318 separates from the drive stem 1314 such thatrotation of the drive member 1318 no longer rotates the drive stem 1314.

FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of atensioning device 1410 that can be similar to, or the same in manyrespects as, the tensioning device 1310 illustrated in FIGS. 26 and 27.For example, the tensioning device 1410 can comprise a clutch assembly1416. However, the clutch assembly 1416 can be a Sprag-type clutcharrangement that includes a plurality of sprags 1480 that selectivelyengage an upper disk 1482. When the clutch assembly 1416 is in anunder-torque condition, as illustrated in FIG. 29, the sprags 1480 areengaged with the upper disk 1482 such that a drive member 1418 isengaged with a drive stem 1414 to facilitate rotation of the drive stem1414 with the drive member 1418. When the clutch assembly 1416 is in anat-torque or over torque condition, as illustrated in FIG. 30, thesprags 1480 disengage from the upper disk 1482 such that rotation of thedrive member 1418 no longer rotates the drive stem 1414.

FIGS. 31 and 32 illustrate yet another alternative embodiment of atensioning device 1510 that can be similar to, or the same in manyrespects as, the tensioning device 1410 illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29.For example, the tensioning device 1510 can comprise a clutch assembly1516 that comprises a plurality of sprags 1580. However, the sprags 1580selectively engage a lower disk 1584. When the clutch assembly 1516 isin an under-torque condition, as illustrated in FIG. 31, the sprags 1580are engaged with the lower disk 1584 such that a drive member 1518 isengaged with a drive stem 1514 to facilitate rotation of the drive stem1514 with the drive member 1518. When the clutch assembly 1516 is in anat-torque or over torque condition, as illustrated in FIG. 32, thesprags 1580 disengage from the lower disk 1584 such that rotation of thedrive member 1518 no longer rotates the drive stem 1514.

FIG. 33 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a clutch assembly 1616that can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, the clutchassembly 1316 illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 28. However, the clutchassembly 1616 can be a torque limiting, friction type clutch which cancomprise a plurality of discs 1686 sandwiched between an upper disk 1688and a lower disk 1690. The upper disk 1688 can be attached to a drivemember (not shown) and the lower disk 1690 can be coupled with a drivestem (not shown). When the clutch assembly 1616 is in an under-torquecondition, the upper disk 1688 is engaged with the lower disk 1690 suchthat the drive member is engaged with the drive stem to facilitaterotation of the drive stem with the drive member. When the clutchassembly 1616 is in an at-torque or over torque condition, the discs1686 facilitate mechanical decoupling of the upper disk 1688 from thelower disk 1690 such that rotation of the drive member no longer rotatesthe drive stem.

FIGS. 34-36 illustrate another alternative embodiment of a clutchassembly 1716 that can be similar to, or the same in many respects as,the clutch assembly 1316 illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 28. However, theclutch assembly 1716 can be a tension limiting clutch which can comprisean input flange 1792 and an output flange 1794. The input flange 1792can be coupled with a drive member (not shown) and the output flange1794 can be coupled with a drive stem (not shown). As illustrated inFIG. 36, the clutch assembly 1716 can include an actuation ring 1796that is coupled with the input flange 1792 and a base element 1798 thatis coupled with the output flange 1794. A plurality of engaging balls1799 are sandwiched between the actuation ring 1796 and the base element1798. When the clutch assembly 1716 is in an under-torque condition(FIG. 34), the engaging balls 1799 couple the actuation ring 1796 andthe base element 1798 together such that the drive member is engagedwith the drive stem to facilitate rotation of the drive stem with thedrive member. When the clutch assembly 1716 is in an at-torque or overtorque condition (FIG. 35), the engaging balls 1799 fall away from theactuation ring 1796 to decouple the actuation ring 1796 from the baseelement 1798 such that rotation of the drive member no longer rotatesthe drive stem.

FIG. 37 illustrates yet another alternative embodiment of a tensioningdevice 1810 that can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, thetensioning device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, thetensioning device 1810 can include a cable member 1846. However, thecable member 1846 can be devoid of a clamp member (e.g., 50).

FIG. 38 illustrates yet another alternative embodiment of a tensioningdevice 1910 that can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, thetensioning device 310 illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11. For example, thetensioning device 1910 can include a housing 1922, a proximal cap 1924,and a distal cap 1926. A cable member 1946 can be routed through adriven member 1920. However, one end of the cable member 1946 can beattached to the distal cap 1926 such that sliding of the driven member1920 within an interior 1928 only slides one end of the cable member1946 relative to the distal cap 1926 to change the effective length ofthe cable member 1946.

FIG. 39 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a cable member 2046that can include a rigid thimble 2002 and a clamp member 2050 disposedadjacent to the rigid thimble 2002.

FIGS. 40A, 40B, 40C, 40D, 40E, 40F, 40G, and 40H illustrate variousalternative arrangements for the housing (e.g., 22) of the housingassembly (e.g., 12). For each arrangement, an anti-rotation device (notshown) can be disposed within the housing and shaped similarly to thehousing.

FIGS. 41-45 illustrate another alternative embodiment of a tensioningdevice 2110 that can include features that are similar to, or the samein many respects as, the features of the tensioning devices describedabove. As illustrated in FIGS. 42 and 43, the tensioning device 2110 caninclude a housing assembly 2112 that includes an inner sleeve 2115, ahousing 2122, and a cap 2126. The inner sleeve 2115 can be disposedwithin the housing 2122 and rotatably coupled with the housing 2122.

A driven member 2120 can be disposed within the inner sleeve 2115, asillustrated in FIG. 43, and slidably coupled with the inner sleeve 2115.In one embodiment, the inner sleeve 2115 can include a threaded portion2121 (FIG. 42) that includes threads formed on an inner diameter of theinner sleeve 2115. The threads of the threaded portion 2121 can matewith threads on an outer diameter of the driven member 2120 such thatthe inner sleeve 2115 and the driven member 2120 are threadably coupledtogether. In such an embodiment, rotation of the inner sleeve 2115relative to the housing 2122 facilitates sliding of the driven member2120 longitudinally within the inner sleeve 2115. The inner sleeve 2115can also include an unthreaded portion (not shown) adjacent the threadedportion 2121 to protect against over-travel of the driven member 2120relative to the inner sleeve 2115.

Referring now to FIGS. 42 and 43, a cable member 2146 can be coupledwith the driven member 2120 such that sliding of the driven member 2120with respect to the inner sleeve 2115 can correspondingly slide thecable member 2146 relative to the housing 2122 between an extendedposition (shown in dashed lines in FIG. 43) and a retracted position(shown in solid lines in FIG. 43). In one embodiment, the driven member2120 can include a crimping portion 2127 that can be crimped to thecable member 2146 to facilitate attachment therebetween. In otherembodiments, the cable member 2146 can be coupled to the driven member2120 through welding, fasteners, adhesives, or any of a variety ofsuitable coupling arrangements.

As illustrated in FIGS. 41-43, the housing 2122 can include a hook 2129and the cable member 2146 can include a hook 2147 disposed at anopposite end of the cable member 2146 as the driven member 2120. Thehooks 2129, 2147 can cooperate with one another to facilitate attachmentof the tensioning device 2110 to a lashing member (not shown). In oneembodiment, the hook 2147 can be crimped or cast on to the cable member2146, but in other embodiments the hook 2147 can be coupled with thecable member 2146 in any of a variety of suitable alternative manners.It is to be appreciated that, although a pair of hooks 2129, 2147 areillustrated and described, any of a variety of suitable alternativeattachment features can be provided on the housing 2122, the cablemember 2146, and/or at other locations on the tensioning device 2110 tofacilitate attachment of the tensioning device 2110 to a lashing member.

Referring now to FIGS. 42 and 43, a plurality of anti-rotation members2130 can be disposed in the inner sleeve 2115 and can be configured toprevent rotation of the driven member 2120 during rotation of the innersleeve 2115. Each of the anti-rotation members 2130 can be coupled atone end with the driven member 2120 and at an opposite end with thehousing 2122 (see FIG. 43). For example, one end of the anti-rotationmembers 2130 can extend through apertures 2131 (FIG. 42) defined by thedriven member 2120 to facilitate coupling therebetween. An opposite endof the anti-rotation members 2130 can extend into the cap 2126 tofacilitate coupling therebetween. The ends of the anti-rotation members2130 can be attached to the driven member 2120 or the housing 2122 viaan interference fit, with adhesive, through welding, though crimping, orwith any of a variety of other suitable alternative attachmentarrangements. It is to be appreciated that although three anti-rotationmembers are illustrated, any quantity of anti-rotation members can beprovided.

A drive member 2118 can be rotatably coupled with the housing 2122 andoperably coupled with the inner sleeve 2115 such that rotation of thedrive member 2118 facilitates rotation of the inner sleeve 2115 relativeto the housing 2122. In one embodiment, the drive member 2118 can berigidly attached to the inner sleeve 2115 through welding, withadhesives, or via an intermeshing arrangement. In another embodiment,the drive member 2118 and the inner sleeve 2115 can be provided as aunitary one-piece construction. The drive member 2118 can include adrive head 2133 that is configured to mate with a wrench or a socket tofacilitate manual or powered rotation of the drive member 2118 with thetool.

The inner sleeve 2115 and the drive member 2118 can be sandwichedbetween a pair of thrust washers 2137 that facilitate journaling of theinner sleeve 2115 with respect to the housing 2122. It is to beappreciated that any of a variety of suitable alternative arrangementscan be provided for journaling the inner sleeve 2115 and the drivemember 2118 with respect to the housing 2122, such as a ball bearing ora roller bearing, for example. A retaining ring 2139 (FIG. 42) can beprovided over the thrust washer 2137 located at the drive member 2118 tofacilitate retention of the inner sleeve 2115, the drive member 2118,the driven member 2120, and the thrust washers 2137 within the housing2122. In some embodiments, an O-ring, a bushing, or other suitablesealing arrangement can be provided between the inner sleeve 2115 andthe housing 2122.

The drive member 2118 can accordingly be operably coupled with thedriven member (via the inner sleeve 2115) such that driven member 2120can slide along an axis (not shown) that is parallel to a rotationalaxis of the drive member 2118. In one embodiment, as illustrated inFIGS. 41-43, the driven member 2120 can slide along an axis that iscoaxial with the rotational axis of the drive member 2118. The drivemember 2118 can accordingly be rotated to facilitate selective extensionand retraction of the cable member 2146 (via the driven member 2120)with respect to the housing 2122. For example, when the drive member2118 is rotated (e.g., with a tool), the inner sleeve 2115 cancorrespondingly rotate with respect to the housing 2122. When the innersleeve 2115 rotates, the anti-rotation members 2130 can prevent thedriven member 2120 from rotating which can cause the driven member 2120to move linearly along the inner sleeve 2115 (e.g., due to the threadedengagement between the inner sleeve 2115 and the driven member 2120) toslide the cable member 2146 between the extended position (shown indashed lines in FIG. 43) and the retracted position (shown in solidlines in FIG. 43) depending on the direction of rotation of the drivemember 2118. In one embodiment, rotation of the drive member 2118 in aclockwise direction or a counter-clockwise direction (when viewing thedrive member 2118 of the tensioning device 2110) can facilitate movementof the cable member 2146 into either the retracted position or theextended position, respectively. In another embodiment, rotation of thedrive member 2118 in a clockwise direction or a counter-clockwisedirection can facilitate movement of the cable member 2146 into eitherthe extended position retraction or the retracted position,respectively. It is to be appreciated that when a lashing member (notshown) is attached to the hooks 2129, 2147, retracting and extending thecable member 2146 can increase and decrease, respectively, the tensionon the lashing member.

Referring now to FIGS. 44 and 45, the hook 2147 can include a tensionsensor 2149 that is configured to facilitate detection of a tensionapplied by the tensioning device 2110. As illustrated in FIGS. 44 and45, the tension sensor 2149 can comprise a sensing device 2153, awireless communication module 2155, a microcontroller 2157 (e.g., acontrol module), and a power supply module 2159. In one embodiment acover (not shown) can be provided over the tension sensor 2149 toprotect the tension sensor 2149 from environmental conditions (e.g.,moisture, precipitation, or inadvertent contact). The sensing device2153 can be configured to detect the tension on the lashing member as afunction of strain (or other forces) imparted to the hook 2147 by thelashing member. In one embodiment, the sensing device 2153 can comprisea strain gage or a Hall-effect sensor. However, other sensing devicesfor detecting strain or other forces are contemplated.

The wireless communication module 2155 can facilitate wirelesscommunication with a remote computing device 2161 via any of a varietyof wireless communication protocols such as, for example, near fieldcommunication (e.g., Bluetooth, ZigBee), a Wireless Personal AreaNetwork (WPAN) (e.g., IrDA, UWB). The microcontroller 2157 can gathersensor data from the sensing device 2153 for processing and canwirelessly communicate the sensor data (via the wireless communicationmodule 2155) to the remote computing device 2161.

The remote computing device 2161 can be a smartphone (e.g., an iOS orAndroid device), a laptop computer, a tablet, or a desktop computer, forexample. The remote computing device 2161 can have an application loadedthereon that is configured to analyze the data from the tension sensor2149 to display a tension value and/or generate a warning, whenappropriate, such that the tension sensor 2149 and the remote computingdevice 2161 cooperate to provide a monitoring system (e.g., an internetof things (IoT) system) for the tensioning device 2110. In somearrangements, the tension sensor 2149 can communicate directly (e.g.,via a cellular connection) with a remote server (e.g., a cloud-basedserver) that is accessed by the remote computing device 2161. In oneembodiment, the tension sensor 2149 can include an on-board display 2163that displays a tension value to a user at the hook 2147.

The power supply module 2159 can facilitate onboard powering of thesensing device 2153, the wireless communication module 2155, and themicrocontroller 2157 and can comprise an integrated power storage devicesuch as a disposable battery, a rechargeable battery, a super capacitoror any of a variety of suitable alternative power storage arrangements.A rechargeable battery pack can be recharged through any of a variety ofpower sources, such as a wall plug, a solar panel, or energy harvestedfrom a nearby communication device (e.g., a passively powered device).In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 44, the power supply module2159 can be embedded within the hook 2147.

It is to be appreciated that although a tension sensor is described, anyof a variety of suitable alternative sensors are contemplated formonitoring different physical parameters of the tensioning device, suchas temperature, location (e.g., GPS), inclination angle, or moisture,for example. It is also be appreciated that although the tension sensor2149 is shown to be provided on the hook 2147, the tension sensor 2149,or any other sensor, can be provided at any of a variety of internal orexternal locations along the tensioning device 2110.

An example of the tensioning device 2110 in use will now be described.First, the cable member 2146 of the tensioning device 2110 can beprovided in the extended position (as illustrated in solid lines in FIG.43) or near the extended position. A lashing member that has been routedaround/over an article can be attached at each end to one of the hooks2129, 2147. A user can then rotate the drive member 2118 (e.g., with ahand tool or power tool) in a tightening direction (e.g., clockwise) tobegin retracting the cable member 2146 into the housing 2122 andtightening the lashing member. The tension sensor 2149 can detect thetension on the lashing member (via the hook 2147) and can display thetension to the user (either on an on-board display or a remote computingdevice). As the user continues to rotate the drive member 2118 toincrease the tension on the lashing member increases, the user canmonitor the tension value displayed to the user on the remote computingdevice 2161 and/or on the on-board display 2163. Once lashing hasreached a desired tension, the user can stop rotating the drive member2118. In one embodiment, the tension sensor 2149 and/or the remotecomputing device 2161 can be programmed with a predefined thresholdtension value and can alert the user (e.g., visually or audibly) whenthe tension has reached or exceeded the threshold tension value. Torelease the lashing member, the user can rotate the drive member 2118 ina loosening direction (e.g., a counter-clock wise direction).

In one embodiment, the tensioning device 2110 can be used in thetrucking industry for securing loads on a long haul trailer. In such anembodiment, the tension sensor 2149 can be configured to communicatedirectly with an onboard fleet management computing system. The tensiondetected by the tensioning member can be wirelessly transmitted to theonboard fleet management computing system (e.g., via Bluetooth) anddisplayed to an operator of the tractor trailer. When the tension fallsbelow a predetermined threshold, such as due to the load shifting orbreaking loose, an alarm can be presented to the operator.

An alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 2210 is illustrated inFIGS. 46-48 and can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, thetensioning device 2110 illustrated in FIGS. 41-45. For example, asillustrated in FIGS. 47 and 48, the tensioning device 2210 can include ahousing 2222, an inner sleeve 2215, and a drive member 2218 operablycoupled with the inner sleeve 2215. The tensioning device 2210 can alsoinclude a cable member 2246 coupled with a hook 2247. The hook 2247 cancomprise a tension sensor 2249 (FIG. 47). However, the tensioning device2210 can include a clutch assembly 2265 that facilitates selective,operable coupling between the drive member 2218 and the inner sleeve2215 and includes a clutch spring 2267 sandwiched between a pair ofclutch pins 2269. The clutch spring 2267 and the clutch pins 2269 can bedisposed in a notch 2271 (FIG. 47) defined by the drive member 2218. Theclutch pins 2269 can each reside in one of a plurality of interior slots2273 (FIG. 47) defined by the inner sleeve 2215. During rotation of thedrive member 2218, the clutch pins 2269 can extend into the interiorslots 2273 to couple the drive member 2218 with the inner sleeve 2215.Once the torque applied to the drive member 2218 exceeds a predefinedthreshold, the clutch pins 2269 can slip out of the interior slots 2273which can decouple the drive member 2218 from the inner sleeve 2215(e.g., clutch out) and can provide audible and/or tactile feedback thatproper cable tension has been obtained. It is to be appreciated that thepredefined threshold torque can be a function of the spring constant ofthe clutch spring 2267, the configuration of the clutch pins 2269 and/orthe configuration of the interior slots 2273. It is to also beappreciated that the tension applied by the cable member 2246 can beproportional to the torque applied to the drive member 2218 (e.g., inputtorque).

An alternative embodiment of a tensioning device 2310 is illustrated inFIGS. 49-51 and can be similar to, or the same in many respects as, thetensioning device 2210 illustrated in FIGS. 46-48. For example, asillustrated in FIGS. 49-51, the tensioning device 2310 can include ahousing 2322, an inner sleeve 2315, and a drive member 2318 operablycoupled with the inner sleeve 2315. The tensioning device 2310 can alsoinclude a cable member 2346 coupled with a hook 2347. The hook 2347 cancomprise a tension sensor 2349. The tensioning device 2310 can include aclutch assembly 2365 that facilitates selective operable couplingbetween the drive member 2318 and the inner sleeve 2315 and includes aclutch spring 2367 sandwiched between a pair of clutch pins 2369.However, the tensioning device 2310 can include an anti-rotation sleeve2375 (in lieu of the anti-rotation members 2130 illustrated in FIGS. 42and 43). The anti-rotation sleeve 2375 can include a pair of arms 2377that extend through apertures 2331 in a driven member 2320. The drivenmember 2320 can slide along the arms 2377 without rotating when thedrive member 2318 is rotated.

The foregoing description of embodiments and examples has been presentedfor purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or limiting to the forms described. Numerous modificationsare possible in light of the above teachings. Some of thosemodifications have been discussed and others will be understood by thoseskilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described forillustration of various embodiments. The scope is, of course, notlimited to the examples or embodiments set forth herein, but can beemployed in any number of applications and equivalent devices by thoseof ordinary skill in the art. Rather, it is hereby intended that thescope be defined by the claims appended hereto. Also, for any methodsclaimed and/or described, regardless of whether the method is describedin conjunction with a flow diagram, it should be understood that unlessotherwise specified or required by context, any explicit or implicitordering of steps performed in the execution of a method does not implythat those steps must be performed in the order presented and may beperformed in a different order or in parallel.

What is claimed is:
 1. A tensioning device comprising: a housingcomprising a first attachment feature; a drive member rotatably coupledwith the housing; an inner sleeve disposed in the housing and coupledwith the drive member, the inner sleeve being rotatable together withthe drive member relative to the housing; a driven member disposedwithin the inner sleeve and operably coupled with the drive member; acable member coupled with the driven member; a clutch assembly thatfacilitates selective coupling between the drive member and the innersleeve; and a tension sensor configured to detect a tension forceapplied between the first attachment feature and the cable member,wherein: the driven member is slidably coupled with the inner sleevesuch that the driven member and the cable member are slidable togetherbetween a retracted position and an extended position in response torotation of the inner sleeve; and rotation of the drive memberfacilitates selective rotation of the inner sleeve to facilitate slidingof the driven member and the cable member together between the retractedposition and the extended position.
 2. The tensioning device of claim 1wherein the driven member is threadably coupled with the inner sleeve.3. The tensioning device of claim 1 further comprising at least oneanti-rotation member that prevents rotation of the driven member whenthe drive member and the inner sleeve are rotated.
 4. The tensioningdevice of claim 1 wherein the tension sensor comprises a display that isconfigured to display the tension force applied between the firstattachment feature and the cable member.
 5. The tensioning device ofclaim 1 wherein the tension sensor comprises a wireless communicationmodule that is configured to wirelessly transmit tension data to aremote computing device.
 6. The tensioning device of claim 1 furthercomprising a second attachment feature coupled with the cable member,the tension sensor being coupled with one of the first attachmentfeature and the second attachment feature.
 7. The tensioning device ofclaim 6 wherein the tension sensor comprises a strain gage.
 8. Thetensioning device of claim 7 wherein one or more of the first attachmentfeature and the second attachment feature comprises a hook.
 9. Atensioning device comprising: a housing comprising a first attachmentfeature; a drive member rotatably coupled with the housing; an innersleeve disposed in the housing and coupled with the drive member, theinner sleeve being rotatable together with the drive member relative tothe housing; a driven member disposed within the inner sleeve andoperably coupled with the drive member; a cable member coupled with thedriven member; a clutch assembly that facilitates selective couplingbetween the drive member and the inner sleeve; a sensor configured todetect a physical parameter of the tensioning device; and a wirelesscommunication module that is configured to wirelessly transmit physicalparameter data to a remote computing device, wherein: the driven memberis slidably coupled with the inner sleeve such that the driven memberand the cable member are slidable together between a retracted positionand an extended position in response to rotation of the inner sleeve;and rotation of the drive member facilitates selective rotation of theinner sleeve to facilitate sliding of the driven member and the cablemember together between the retracted position and the extendedposition.
 10. The tensioning device of claim 9 wherein the sensor isconfigured to detect one of a temperature, a physical location, aninclination angle, and a moisture level.
 11. The tensioning device ofclaim 10 wherein the sensor comprises a display that is configured todisplay the physical parameter to a user.
 12. The tensioning device ofclaim 11 wherein the driven member is threadably coupled with the innersleeve.
 13. A tensioning device comprising: a housing comprising a firsthook; a drive member rotatably coupled with the housing; an inner sleevedisposed in the housing and coupled with the drive member, the innersleeve being rotatable together with the drive member relative to thehousing; a driven member disposed within the inner sleeve and operablycoupled with the drive member; a cable member coupled with the drivenmember; a clutch assembly that facilitates selective coupling betweenthe drive member and the inner sleeve; a second hook coupled with thecable member; a tension sensor coupled with one of the first hook andthe second hook and configured to detect a tension force applied betweenthe first hook and the second hook; and a wireless communication modulethat is configured to wirelessly transmit tension data to a remotecomputing device, wherein: the driven member is slidably coupled withthe inner sleeve such that the driven member and the cable member areslidable together between a retracted position and an extended positionin response to rotation of the inner sleeve; and rotation of the drivemember facilitates selective rotation of the inner sleeve to facilitatesliding of the driven member and the cable member together between theretracted position and the extended position.
 14. The tensioning deviceof claim 13 wherein the tension sensor is coupled with the second hook.15. The tensioning device of claim 14 wherein the tension sensorcomprises a strain gage.
 16. The tensioning device of claim 15 whereinthe tension sensor further comprises a power supply that is embedded inthe second hook.